The australian terrier, also called Aussie (not to be confused with the australian shepherd) originates from different types of british terriers, most likely cairn, dandie dinmont and yorkshire among them. Early on, the puppies where registered as either of these breeds, depending on which the litter most closely resembled. In the late 1800's breed clubs were formed to preserve the australian terrier, and the breedings were stabilized.
The aussie terrier has mainly been used as a farm dog, its speciality being vermin extermination. The breed is also famous for its snake hunting abilities.

The australian terrier should be a robust, hardy and rather low-legged terrier. The head is long with flat skull and slight stop. The head should have a topknot. The eyes are small with a lively expression, the ears are small, erect and pointed. The neck is long and slightly arched. The body should be long in relation to the height, with a moderately deep chest and straight back. The tail is set high. The coat is thick, hard and straight.